Psychological Readiness for Competition: Examining the Relationship Between Self-Esteem and Competitive Anxiety Among Netball Players

Abstract

The inconsistent performance of netball players in Sepang, Selangor, highlights the importance of understanding psychological factors influencing athletic outcomes. Existing studies have inadequately explored the interplay between psychological readiness, self-esteem, and competition anxiety, leaving a gap in targeted interventions to enhance athlete performance. This study provides novel insights into how these variables relate to and predict readiness. The objective of this study was to examine the correlations and predictive relationships between psychological readiness, self-esteem, and competition anxiety among netball players in Sepang. A quantitative correlational design was utilized, involving 84 netball players selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using validated instruments: the Athletic Coping Skills Inventory (ACSI-28) to measure psychological readiness, the Sport Anxiety Scale (SAS-2) to assess competition anxiety, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) for self-esteem. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Version 26, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and regression analysis. Findings revealed moderate to high psychological readiness, with adaptability scoring the highest (M = 3.06) and anxiety freedom the lowest (M = 2.25). Self-esteem showed a significant negative correlation with psychological readiness (r = -0.396, p < .01), while competition anxiety exhibited a positive correlation (r = 0.390, p < .01). Regression analysis confirmed competition anxiety as a significant positive predictor and self-esteem as a negative predictor of psychological readiness.  This study advances the understanding of psychological readiness in athletes, emphasizing the need for balanced self-esteem and effective anxiety management strategies. Limitations include a small sample size and regional focus, reducing generalizability. Future research should adopt longitudinal approaches and diverse samples to validate findings. Interventions targeting psychological readiness are recommended to improve athletic performance